Brian Bilston: How to Lay an Egg with a Horse Inside 
Spoken Word

Brian Bilston: How to Lay an Egg with a Horse Inside 

Brian Bilston • Professional company

60 minutes•Ballroom
One of the UK's most hilarious and best-loved poets is here to take us through the hows, whys and whats of reading, writing and enjoying poetry every day. With his characteristic wit and charm, Bilston accompanies us through the jungle of imagination to the source of inspiration, takes us under the bonnet of a sonnet and over the fear of literary devices. He gives us a whirlwind tour through the history of verse – and shows us why human poetry will always triumph over any attempts by AI.

About Brian Bilston

Brian Bilston is a poet presenting a 60-minute spoken word show at the Ballroom venue. With characteristic wit and charm, the show guides audiences through the hows, whys and whats of reading, writing and enjoying poetry. Bilston takes his audience through the history of verse, unpacks literary devices, and argues that human poetry will always triumph over AI. The show is priced at £16 and is suitable for ages 14 and over. It contains strong language.

Why see this show?

A poet who makes a case for human verse over AI in the Ballroom at £16 — Bilston's wit and charm make the history of poetry feel like an adventure rather than a lesson. A warm, funny 60 minutes for anyone curious about words.

Event Details

Monday 24 - Sunday 30 August 2026

All performances at 16:40

7 performances

60 minutes

Ballroom

54 George Street

View on map

1 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Ticket Price

£16

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Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the show about?

Brian Bilston guides audiences through the hows, whys and whats of reading, writing and enjoying poetry, covering the history of verse and arguing that human poetry will always triumph over AI.

How long does the show run?

60 minutes.

Where is it performed?

At the Ballroom, Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

How much are tickets?

Tickets start at £16.

What is the age guidance?

Suitable for ages 14 and over.

Are there any content warnings?

The show contains strong language and swearing.

About This Performance

Brian Bilston: How to Lay an Egg with a Horse Inside  is a spoken word performance at Ballroom during Edinburgh Festival 2026. Running for 60 minutes, this show is part of the world's largest arts festival, bringing together performers and audiences from across the globe.

Experience the magic of live performance at Edinburgh Festival. Each show offers something unique and memorable.

Venue: Ballroom

Ballroom is one of Edinburgh's Festival venues, hosting a variety of performances throughout August. Located in the heart of the city, the venue is accessible by public transport and within walking distance of other Festival locations.

Tips for Attending

  • •Read recent reviews for audience reactions
  • •Check venue accessibility if needed
  • •Allow time to find unfamiliar venues
  • •Download venue apps for digital tickets

Booking Information

Ticket Prices: £16 - £19

Age Guidance: 14+

Content Warnings: Strong language/swearing

Book early to avoid disappointment. Popular shows sell out quickly during Edinburgh Festival.

Part of Edinburgh Festival 2026

Edinburgh Festival transforms Scotland's capital into the world's leading cultural destination every August. With thousands of performances across hundreds of venues, the festival offers unparalleled choice for culture lovers.Brian Bilston: How to Lay an Egg with a Horse Inside  represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

Looking for more spoken word shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026?

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